Finding the best action cameras under $100 in 2026 is harder than most guides make it sound. I spent weeks testing 8 different models in real conditions, from mountain biking in muddy trails to snorkeling in clear lakes, to figure out which budget action cameras are actually worth your money.
Here’s the truth: cheap action cameras have come a long way. A $79 camera today can shoot 4K video that rivals models costing three times as much just a few years ago. But there are still serious differences in image quality, stabilization, and waterproofing that nobody talks about in the Amazon listing.
After testing every camera on this list, I narrowed it down to 8 standouts. The AKASO EK7000 Pro earned my Editor’s Choice for its unbeatable combination of 4K video, reliable touch screen, and comprehensive accessory kit. The ODDV 4K60FPS surprised me with its 60fps recording at a mid-range price. And the Xilecam at around $20 proved that you can actually capture decent action footage for less than dinner for two.
Whether you need a helmet cam for cycling, an underwater camera for snorkeling, or a beginner vlogging camera, this guide covers the best budget action cameras available right now. I included cameras ranging from $20 to $89 so there’s something for every budget.
Top 3 Picks for Best Action Cameras Under $100 (September 2026)
AKASO EK7000 Pro 4K Action Camera
- 4K/30fps video
- 20MP photos
- Touch screen + EIS
- 131ft waterproof
- 2 batteries included
ODDV 4K60FPS Action Camera
- 4K60fps video
- 30MP photos
- Dual touch screens
- EIS 6.0 stabilization
- 64GB card included
Xilecam 1080P Sports Camera
- 1080P/30fps
- 40m waterproof
- 2 batteries
- Multi-function accessory kit
- Lightweight 45g
Best Action Cameras Under $100 in 2026
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
 AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS Action Camera |
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 Nvgfelis Dual Screen Action Camera |
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 AKASO Brave 4 Action Camera |
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| Xilecam 1080P Sports Camera |
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| ODDV 4K60FPS Action Camera |
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| AKASO EK7000 Pro 4K Action Camera |
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 fceoul A3 Action Camera |
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 Hiicam Speed 20 4K Action Camera |
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1. AKASO EK7000 4K30FPS Action Camera – Veteran Budget Performer
Pros
- Excellent value
- Comprehensive accessory kit
- Good 4K video
- 2 batteries included
- Wireless remote
Cons
- Audio muffled in case
- App connectivity issues
- Average battery life
The AKASO EK7000 is one of the most popular action cameras ever sold on Amazon, with over 39,000 reviews backing it up. I tested it on a rainy cycling trip and the footage held up surprisingly well. The 4K resolution at 30fps produces sharp, vibrant video that looks great on a phone or laptop screen.
The 20MP photo sensor is a real step up from older budget cameras. I got crisp shots of trail signs and stream crossings that I’d happily use for social media. The 170-degree wide-angle lens captures everything in your peripheral vision, which is exactly what you want from an action camera.
EIS image stabilization works decently for walking footage but struggles with high-impact sports. If you’re mountain biking over rough terrain or skiing moguls, expect to see some shakiness. For hiking, vlogging, or casual cycling, the stabilization is more than adequate.
The waterproof case is rated to 131 feet (40 meters), which is overkill for most users but reassuring. I took it snorkeling in 10 feet of water and the footage came out clear with good color retention. The case does muffle audio, so vloggers will want to remove it for talking head segments.
Bundled accessories and battery setup
The accessory kit is where the EK7000 really shines. You get helmet mounts, handlebar mounts, adhesive pads, and a wireless wrist remote, basically everything you need to start shooting right out of the box. Two 1050mAh batteries give you about 90 minutes of recording each, so swapping mid-adventure is easy.
The remote control is genuinely useful for mounting the camera out of reach. I strapped it to my bike helmet and could start and stop recording without touching the camera. It’s a small feature that makes a big difference in real-world use.
Limitations you should know about
The AKASO app is the biggest pain point. Connection drops, slow transfers, and occasional crashes are common complaints. I found that transferring files via the SD card reader is much faster and more reliable. The audio quality is also mediocre, especially with the waterproof case on. Wind noise becomes prominent above 15mph.
Low-light performance is poor, like most budget action cameras. If you plan to shoot at dusk or indoors, the footage will be noisy and soft. Stick to daylight conditions for best results.
2. Nvgfelis Dual Screen Action Camera – Budget Selfie Vlogger Choice
Pros
- Dual screens for selfies
- 16GB SD included
- 2 batteries
- Easy to use
- 40M waterproof
Cons
- Limited to 1080p
- No WiFi
- Smaller review base
The Nvgfelis dual screen action camera is a hidden gem for vloggers on a tight budget. The front-facing screen is a game-changer when you’re filming yourself. You can actually see if you’re in frame without guessing or taking test shots. For $34.99, that dual screen feature alone is impressive.
Video quality tops out at 1080P, which isn’t going to win any awards, but for social media content and casual YouTube videos, it does the job. The 16MP photo sensor captures detailed stills in good lighting. I found the colors slightly oversaturated out of the box, but you can adjust this in the settings.
One of the best things about this package is what comes in the box. You get two 1050mAh batteries, a 16GB microSD card, and a full accessory kit with helmet and bike mounts. Most cameras in this price range make you buy the SD card separately, so this is a real value add.
Where the dual screen really helps
The front display is bright enough to see in direct sunlight, which is the main concern with vlogging cameras. I tested it on a hiking trip and could clearly see whether I was framed correctly. The rear 2-inch screen is also responsive and shows the live view without lag.
For underwater use, the camera comes with a waterproof housing rated to 40 meters. I took it to a lake at about 8 feet deep and the footage looked great. Color accuracy underwater is decent, though you’ll want to add a red filter for tropical diving to avoid blue-tinted footage.
Who should skip this camera
If you need 4K resolution for professional work, look elsewhere. The 1080P footage is fine for online sharing but won’t hold up to heavy editing or large-screen viewing. There’s also no WiFi, so you can’t transfer files wirelessly to your phone. Plan on using the SD card or USB cable.
The Nvgfelis has only 19 reviews, which is a small sample size. Newer products can sometimes have quality control issues that take time to surface. Based on my testing, the unit I received worked well, but I’d keep an eye on returns policies just in case.
3. AKASO Brave 4 Action Camera – 4K Value With Dual Displays
Pros
- 4K video quality
- Smart gyroscope stabilization
- Extensive accessory kit
- Adjustable FOV
- Underwater performance
Cons
- Battery swelling reports
- Wrist remote issues
- Battery life limited
The AKASO Brave 4 is a step up from the original EK7000 in several meaningful ways. The 4K video at 30fps is sharper, with better dynamic range. I shot footage at a waterfall and the mist, rocks, and foliage all looked natural and detailed. The 20MP sensor captures vivid stills that rival entry-level mirrorless cameras in good light.
What sets the Brave 4 apart is the adjustable field of view. You can choose from 170°, 140°, 110°, or 70° depending on the shot. For tight action scenes, the narrower FOV reduces fisheye distortion. For sweeping landscapes, the wide 170° captures everything. This flexibility is rare at this price point.
The gyroscope-based stabilization is noticeably better than the EK7000. Walking footage looks smooth, and even light running produces watchable video. Heavy mountain biking will still show some shake, but it’s a real improvement over cheaper models.
Underwater performance is where the Brave 4 really impressed me. I tested it at 15 feet in a clear lake and the colors came out vibrant and accurate. The waterproof case seals tight and the buttons remain tactile even with the housing on. Snorkelers and casual divers will love this camera.
Dual display and connectivity
The dual screen design (front status display + 2-inch rear screen) is genuinely useful. The front display shows recording status, battery life, and mode without needing to wake the rear screen. This saves battery life when you’re not actively framing shots.
WiFi connectivity with the AKASO app works better than the EK7000, though still not perfectly. HDMI output is a nice bonus for connecting to a TV or monitor for playback. The accessory kit is comprehensive, with mounts for almost every activity you can think of.
Battery and reliability concerns
The biggest concern with the Brave 4 is battery quality. Some users have reported battery swelling after extended use, which is a safety issue. AKASO has addressed this in newer production runs, but it’s worth checking the manufacture date when you receive yours. The 90-minute battery life per charge is also shorter than newer competitors.
The wrist remote is convenient but can be finicky. Range is limited to about 10 feet and connection drops occasionally. I ended up using the side button on the camera most of the time, which works fine for solo use.
4. Xilecam 1080P Action Camera – Under $25 Starter Option
Pros
- Under $25 price
- Lightweight 45g
- Good underwater performance
- Includes 2 batteries
- Quick startup
Cons
- Not true 1080P
- AVI format heavy files
- Max 32GB SD limit
- No WiFi
The Xilecam X200 proves that you can get a functional action camera for under $25. I gave one to my nephew for his 12th birthday, and he used it to film skateboarding tricks in the driveway. The footage was rough but watchable, and the camera survived multiple drops onto concrete.
At 45 grams, this is the lightest camera on this list by a wide margin. If you’re mounting it on a drone or a helmet where weight matters, that’s a real advantage. The compact size also makes it less obtrusive when strapped to bike handlebars or chest mounts.
The 1080P video at 30fps is acceptable for casual use, though not as sharp as 4K cameras. Colors look slightly washed out and there’s noticeable noise in low light. For daylight shooting in good conditions, the footage is good enough for social media and sharing with friends.
The waterproof housing is rated to 40 meters and works well for swimming and snorkeling. I tested it in a pool and the seal held up perfectly. The case buttons are easy to press even with wet hands.
What makes this a true budget option
The Xilecam is a no-frills camera that does the basics well. There’s no WiFi, no app, and no fancy features. You point, shoot, and transfer files via SD card. For kids, beginners, or anyone who just wants to try action camera footage without a big investment, this is the most affordable option that still works.
The two 900mAh batteries give you about 2 hours of total recording time. Battery life is actually one of the strengths of this camera, since the simpler hardware doesn’t draw as much power.
Limitations to accept at this price
The 32GB SD card limit is a real constraint. At 1080P, you’ll fill a 32GB card in about 4 hours of recording. The AVI video format also takes up more space than MP4, so file sizes run large.
Video quality is not true 1080P in all conditions. The sensor interpolates to 1080P, meaning the actual resolution is lower. Side-by-side with the AKASO cameras, the Xilecam footage looks softer and less detailed. This is the trade-off you accept for the low price.
5. ODDV 4K60FPS Action Camera – Premium Features on a Budget
Pros
- 4K60fps recording
- 30MP photos
- Intuitive touch screen
- 64GB card included
- 6-axis stabilization
Cons
- New product limited reviews
- Learning curve for features
The ODDV ACTION1 surprised me more than any other camera in this roundup. Getting 4K at 60fps under $50 was unthinkable a couple of years ago, and the footage actually looks good. Motion is smooth, details are crisp, and the high frame rate lets you create half-speed slow motion that still looks sharp in 4K.
The 30MP photo sensor is the highest resolution in this price range. Daylight photos have excellent detail and color accuracy. I compared them to shots from my phone and the ODDV held its own in many situations. For an action camera, the still image quality is genuinely impressive.
EIS 6.0 stabilization uses a 6-axis gyroscope for smoother footage. Walking and light jogging footage looks very stable, and even moderate cycling produces watchable video. This is the best stabilization I’ve seen on a camera under $50.
The dual touch screen setup is intuitive and responsive. The rear 2-inch touch screen handles all the menu navigation, and the 1.4-inch front screen is perfect for vloggers. Both displays are bright enough to read in direct sunlight.
What’s in the box
The accessory bundle is generous. You get a 64GB microSD card, which is enough for over 2 hours of 4K recording. Two batteries, a remote control, and a full accessory kit round out the package. The included case is sturdy and rated to 132 feet underwater.
WiFi connectivity for app control and file transfer is fast and stable. I transferred a 2GB video file to my phone in about 3 minutes, which is faster than most budget cameras. The app interface is clean and easy to navigate.
Why the limited reviews matter
The ODDV ACTION1 is a newer product with only 15 reviews. While all 15 are 5-star, that’s a small sample size. Quality control issues often show up after a product has been on the market longer. Based on my testing, the unit I received performed well, but I’d recommend buying from a retailer with a good return policy.
There’s also a learning curve to using all the features. The menus are deeper than simpler cameras, so expect to spend some time exploring settings. The manual is adequate but not comprehensive, so YouTube tutorials can help.
6. AKASO EK7000 Pro 4K Action Camera – The Best Overall Budget Action Camera
Pros
- 4K video quality
- Intuitive touch screen
- Strong image stabilization
- Comprehensive accessory kit
- 140min battery life
Cons
- Audio in waterproof case
- App connectivity quirks
- Snorkeling color cast
The AKASO EK7000 Pro is the sweet spot in the budget action camera market. After testing all 8 cameras on this list, this is the one I keep coming back to. The 4K video quality is sharp, the touch screen is the most responsive I tested, and the image stabilization is genuinely effective.
The 2-inch IPS touch screen makes a huge difference in daily use. Navigating menus is fast, and switching modes takes seconds. Compared to the button-only interface on cheaper cameras, the touch screen feels modern and intuitive.
EIS image stabilization is where the Pro justifies its higher price over the original EK7000. Walking footage looks smooth, jogging footage is watchable, and even light mountain biking produces usable video. The gyroscope handles moderate vibrations well, though heavy impacts will still show some shake.
Battery life is excellent for this category. The two included 1350mAh batteries deliver up to 140 minutes of recording each, which is significantly longer than the original EK7000. I recorded a full 3-hour hiking trip on a single charge swap.
Accessories and mounting
The accessory kit is the most comprehensive of any camera in this price range. You get helmet mounts, handlebar mounts, adhesive pads, a tripod adapter, and the wireless wrist remote. The AKASO app also works better with the Pro than older models, with faster file transfers and more reliable connections.
The waterproof housing is rated to 131 feet and works well for swimming, snorkeling, and shallow diving. The buttons remain tactile through the case, and the seal is tight. I tested it in a pool and at a lake, and it performed flawlessly both times.
Minor drawbacks
Audio quality through the waterproof case is average, with wind noise becoming prominent above 15mph. The snorkeling mode adds a slight yellow color cast that some users notice. Both are minor issues that don’t significantly impact overall value.
The WiFi connection can be finicky, especially when first pairing with the app. Once connected, transfers are reasonably fast. The micro HDMI output is a nice bonus for direct playback to a TV without needing a computer.
7. fceoul A3 Action Camera – Entry-Level Vlogging Starter
Pros
- Dual screens
- 16GB card included
- 2 batteries
- Easy menus
- Good for beginners
Cons
- Not touch screen
- Minor selfie mode glitches
- 1080P only
The fceoul A3 is the best choice for someone who has never used an action camera before. The menu system is straightforward, the buttons are clearly labeled, and the included manual walks you through every function. For under $35, it’s an easy way to start capturing action footage without a learning curve.
The dual screen design is the standout feature. The 1.3-inch front display is perfect for framing selfies and vlogs, and the 2-inch rear screen shows the live view clearly. Both displays are easy to read in daylight.
Video quality at 1080P/30fps is solid for the price. Colors are accurate, exposure is balanced, and the footage is sharp enough for social media. The 16MP photos look good in well-lit conditions, though low-light performance is limited like most budget cameras.
Two 1050mAh batteries give you about 2 hours of recording per charge, with a spare included. The 16GB microSD card in the box means you can start shooting immediately, which is a nice touch for beginners who don’t want to buy accessories separately.
What makes this beginner-friendly
The menu system uses simple icons and clear text labels. Switching between video, photo, and playback modes takes one button press. Time-lapse, burst photo, and self-timer modes are all included and easy to set up.
The waterproof housing works well for pool and lake use. I tested it in a swimming pool and the footage was clear and well-colored. The case is sturdy enough to handle drops, which is reassuring for new users who might be clumsy with their gear.
Trade-offs at this price
The screen is not touch-capable, so you navigate using the side buttons. This takes some getting used to but isn’t a deal-breaker. There’s no 4K recording, so if you need higher resolution, you’ll need to spend more on the ODDV or Hiicam models.
I did experience a minor freeze when switching to selfie mode during my testing. A quick reset fixed the issue, and it didn’t happen again. With only 17 reviews, the sample size is small, but all current ratings are 5 stars.
8. Hiicam Speed 20 4K Action Camera – Underrated 4K Performer
Pros
- Sharp 4K video
- Responsive touch screen
- EIS stabilization
- Dual screens
- Remote control included
Cons
- SD card not included
- Battery 1.5-2hrs
- Fisheye in photos
The Hiicam Speed 20 is the dark horse of this list. It doesn’t have the brand recognition of AKASO, but the performance rivals cameras costing significantly more. The 4K video at 30fps is sharp, with accurate colors and good dynamic range. Daylight footage looks excellent, with detail that holds up even on a 4K monitor.
The 2-inch IPS touch screen is responsive and easy to navigate. The 1.4-inch front display shows recording status and helps with vlog framing. Both screens are bright enough to read in sunlight, which is a real advantage for outdoor use.
EIS image stabilization is effective for walking and light jogging. Cycling footage is usable, though heavy mountain biking still shows some vibration. The stabilization is competitive with the ODDV and slightly better than the AKASO EK7000 Pro in my testing.
The 170-degree wide angle lens is removable, which is a feature I haven’t seen on most budget cameras. If you want a narrower field of view for less fisheye distortion, you can swap lenses. The included fisheye lens is great for capturing immersive action shots.
Bundled accessories and value
You get two 1350mAh batteries, a remote control, and a full accessory kit. The remote is convenient for hands-free recording when the camera is mounted out of reach. The accessory kit covers helmet, bike, and tripod mounting.
One downside is the lack of an included SD card. You’ll need to buy one separately, ideally a U3-rated card for 4K recording. Budget another $10-15 for a 64GB card to get the most out of this camera.
Why this camera punches above its weight
The Hiicam Speed 20 supports SD cards up to 256GB, which is more than most budget cameras. This means you can record for hours without swapping cards. The WiFi connectivity is stable, and the app transfers files quickly.
Battery life is moderate at about 1.5-2 hours per charge, so having two batteries is essential for longer shoots. The camera can get warm during extended 4K recording, but it doesn’t shut down or throttle performance.
How to Choose the Best Action Camera Under $100 for Your Needs?
Choosing the best action cameras under $100 means balancing features against your specific use case. After testing all 8 models, I’ve identified the key factors that actually matter when making your decision. Here’s what to consider before clicking buy.
Video resolution and frame rate
4K at 30fps is the sweet spot for most users in 2026. It produces sharp footage that looks great on modern phones, laptops, and TVs. The ODDV ACTION1 and Hiicam Speed 20 both offer 4K recording, and the AKASO EK7000 Pro and Brave 4 also deliver solid 4K quality. If you need 60fps for smooth slow motion, the ODDV is the only option under $50.
1080P at 30fps is sufficient for social media content and casual YouTube videos. The Nvgfelis, fceoul A3, and Xilecam all record at 1080P, and the footage looks good for online sharing. If you’re not planning to view footage on large screens or do heavy editing, 1080P is perfectly fine.
Waterproofing and underwater use
Every camera on this list includes a waterproof housing rated to 40 meters or more. In practice, all of them worked flawlessly for swimming, snorkeling, and shallow diving. The AKASO models and Hiicam have the best underwater color reproduction in my testing.
If you plan to dive deeper than 10 meters regularly, look for a camera with adjustable underwater white balance. Most budget cameras have a fixed underwater mode that works fine in tropical waters but can look blue in cold lakes. Adding a red filter accessory helps, but it’s an extra cost to consider.
Electronic image stabilization (EIS)
EIS makes a huge difference in how usable your footage looks. The ODDV ACTION1 has the best stabilization in this price range, followed by the AKASO EK7000 Pro and Hiicam Speed 20. The original AKASO EK7000 and Xilecam have basic stabilization that helps but doesn’t eliminate shake.
For high-impact sports like mountain biking or skiing, even the best EIS on budget cameras won’t produce perfectly smooth footage. If you need professional-level stabilization, you’ll need to spend more on a GoPro or DJI. For walking, hiking, and casual cycling, the EIS on these cameras is more than adequate.
Battery life and accessories
Every camera on this list includes at least 2 batteries, which is essential for a full day of shooting. The AKASO EK7000 Pro has the longest battery life at 140 minutes per charge, while the ODDV and Hiicam average about 90-120 minutes. Plan to swap batteries during longer shoots.
Accessory kits vary significantly. The AKASO models come with the most comprehensive bundles, including helmet mounts, handlebar mounts, and adhesive pads. The budget Xilecam and Nvgfelis include basic mounts, but you may need to buy additional accessories for specific activities like chest mounting or tripod use.
For more specialized guides, check out my roundups of the best action cameras for vlogging, cycling, hiking, and surfing. Each guide dives deeper into activity-specific recommendations.
Connectivity and app quality
WiFi connectivity and app quality vary widely in the budget action camera market. The ODDV has the best app experience with fast transfers and stable connections. The AKASO app is functional but can be finicky. Cameras without WiFi, like the Xilecam, require SD card transfers, which is faster but less convenient.
If you plan to edit and share footage quickly from your phone, prioritize a camera with reliable WiFi and a good app. If you don’t mind transferring files via SD card reader, you can save money by going with a non-WiFi model.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cheap action cameras under $100 actually good?
Yes, cheap action cameras have improved dramatically. Models like the AKASO EK7000 Pro and ODDV ACTION1 now offer 4K video, reliable stabilization, and waterproof housings that rival cameras costing three times as much. The main trade-offs are lower low-light performance, shorter battery life, and less polished app software. For daylight outdoor use, casual vlogging, and travel, budget action cameras are genuinely good options.
What is the best GoPro alternative under $100?
The AKASO EK7000 Pro is the best GoPro alternative under $100 in 2026. It shoots 4K/30fps video with effective electronic image stabilization, comes with a 131ft waterproof case, and includes a comprehensive accessory kit that rivals GoPro’s. The ODDV ACTION1 is another strong alternative with 4K/60fps recording and dual touch screens. Both deliver video quality close to entry-level GoPro models at a fraction of the cost.
How important is EIS image stabilization in budget action cameras?
EIS image stabilization is very important for action cameras. Without it, footage from walking, cycling, or any movement looks shaky and hard to watch. The best budget cameras like the ODDV ACTION1 and AKASO EK7000 Pro have effective EIS that smooths out walking and light jogging footage. For high-impact sports, even good EIS on budget cameras won’t match GoPro’s HyperSmooth, but it makes a huge difference compared to unstabilized footage.
Can I use these action cameras for YouTube vlogging?
Yes, several cameras on this list work well for YouTube vlogging. The AKASO EK7000 Pro, ODDV ACTION1, and Hiicam Speed 20 all have front-facing screens and shoot 4K video suitable for YouTube. For vlogging specifically, look for cameras with front displays for framing, external microphone support, and touch screens for easy settings changes. The Nvgfelis and fceoul A3 are great budget options for beginners starting a YouTube channel.
What memory card do I need for a budget action camera?
For 4K recording, you need a microSD card rated U3 or V30 with at least 64GB of storage. For 1080P recording, a U1 card with 32GB is sufficient. Most cameras on this list include a card in the box, but if you need more storage, the Hiicam Speed 20 supports up to 256GB cards. Stick with reputable brands like SanDisk, Samsung, or Lexar to avoid compatibility issues and file corruption.
Final Verdict: Which Budget Action Camera Should You Buy?
After testing 8 different action cameras under $100, the AKASO EK7000 Pro is my top recommendation for most people. It delivers the best balance of 4K video quality, reliable stabilization, intuitive touch screen, and comprehensive accessory kit. With over 11,000 reviews backing it up, it’s a proven performer that won’t disappoint.
If 4K/60fps is a priority, go with the ODDV ACTION1. The higher frame rate produces smoother slow-motion footage and the 30MP photos are excellent for a camera at this price. The included 64GB card and dual touch screens add real value.
For absolute beginners or anyone on the tightest budget, the Xilecam at around $20 is a legitimate action camera that handles the basics well. It’s not going to win any awards for video quality, but it gets the job done for casual use.
The best action cameras under $100 in 2026 prove that you don’t need to spend $300+ to capture great action footage. Whether you’re documenting adventures, starting a YouTube channel, or just want a fun camera for family trips, there’s a budget option on this list that fits your needs.